Melanie Amaro saved by Simon's flip-flop on 'X Factor'

In a shocker, Melanie Amaro, who was considered one of the favorites, didn't make "The X Factor" cut to 16 Tuesday night in a show taped in August.

Then, in an even bigger shocker, the 19-year-old from Sunrise was back in the competition for the $5 million grand prize.

The final slot set aside for four girls under 30 came down to a decision by Simon Cowell between Amaro and 13-year-old Rachel Crow. After saying he would never forget Amaro's brilliant audition in Miami, Simon gave the nod to Crow.

However, he quickly had remorse. "I've made a massive mistake," he said. "I've now got to right a wrong."

Simon conferred with the other judges — L.A. Reid, Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul — and said they all asked, "What were you thinking?"

Simon traveled to Amaro's Sunrise home and broke the news to her, with her mother, father, two brothers and a sister watching. "We want you back on the live show."

Fox and "The X Factor" have been saying the live performances would begin Nov. 2. However, at the end of Tuesday's program, it was announced the finals will begin "next Tuesday," which will be Oct. 25

So instead of the intended 16, there will be 17 finalists; five girls, and four apiece in the boys, groups and over 30 categories.

"I never would have forgiven myself if I hadn't done this," Simon said.

He made a promise to the Amaro family. "I won't let her down this time."